James Howson 'too ill' to attend racism trial

COURT: James Howson 'too ill' to attend racism trial - Actor is reportedly being treated for a psychotic disorder

BRITISH ACTOR James Howson's sentencing in his racial abuse trial has been delayed for a third time after his lawyers reportedly told the court he was too ill to appear.

Earlier this year, the rising star, who was the first black actor to play Heathcliff in a 2011 movie adaptation of Wuthering Heights, pleaded guilty to a charge of racially aggravated harassment after called his asian ex-girlfriend racial slurs.

At a court hearing in February, it emerged Howson had been sectioned for a month under the Mental Health Act and his sentencing was pushed back to March.

The 25-year-old was due back in court for sentencing on yesterday, but the hearing was adjourned until 28 May as he continues to undergo psychiatric treatment.

Howson's lawyer said: "The reality is that the defendant is not well enough to attend court today."

"He is under medication for a psychotic disorder," they added.

The case continues.

Posted on: 01/05/2012 10:29 AM

Subscribe to The Voice database!

We'd like to keep in touch with you regarding our daily newsletter, Voice competitions, promotions and marketing material and to further increase our reach with The Voice readers.

If interested, please click the below button to complete the subscription form.